Stopped by Makanda shops on a Monday. Poor selections. 2/5 closed. One said call us at this phone…read morenumber, we are out back...really? One I bought ice cream and coffee, but was never greeted until I walked over to the man and said Hello, how are you. Disappointing....

I love this shop. So many cool items from around the world (and nearby, too). All reasonably…read morepriced! (And there are "steals" on the sale table!!!) The staff are friendly and helpful. Good for a story or two, if you've got the time and they aren't too busy. I need to come back because I saw they have moved into (and renovated) a new spot. Looks like they've got more room and more stuff, too! One of the many reasons to enjoy a stop in Makanda!

Artist Chris Webbena shows off art from his most recent DEMOS exhibit which he enhanced through his…read moreadmiration of geologic and neolithic rock '. Oil painting artist and author of books such as 'A Mother Society' and also former member and exhibitor at the St. Louis Artist Guild based out of Webster Groves, MO. near Ladue, MO. author Ariel O'Suilleabhain also attended the exhibit. A friend of the artist and inspirational professor of writing Dr. Rieger, present Director of the Center for Faulkner Studies of Southeast MO. University since 2013 was asked by the author to try his hand at photography here. Rieger, a former PhD graduate of Louisiana State University and whom also once taught writing to O'Suilleabhain at Southeastern Missouri State University had just completed teaching one recent course based on the Ginsberg poem novella style of O'Suilleabhain's newest and scholarly but very entertaining book for women who soar. O'Suilleabhain is standing to the left of Webbena. Webbena's wife also a teacher at Southeastern, MO. State University attended along with Dr. Rieger's wife. Other patrons of the arts who attended the gala event came especially to think about purchasing options. "It looks like art at the society is brighter than ever, and what most of the public should know is that most of the art here is for sale." said one patron. "The art is most definitely high caliber. Some patrons visit the shows just for that reason," he added.

Wonderful place to visit. First Fridays with the Arts there are always something new to see. Staff…read moreare always friendly.

Take a stroll over to the RME Art Studio and venture in to see the stunning art works of Rachel…read moreMalcolm Ensor. The studio is open to the public on Saturdays from 10-5PM. Rachael is an accomplished educator with a PHD in Art History, a master's in modern art with a specialty in African Studies, and a BFA in Painting from the Kansas City Art School Institute. She is a retired professor at SIUC with a post-doctoral fellowship at the University of Virginia. Each unique canvas/painting that she produces is an absolute masterpiece with such a detailed history and story behind each design. The mixed media that she creates from organic sources towards abstraction is awe-inspiring. It was just a pleasure to learn so much about art and African history in the brief time I visited the studio. From this day forward I will look at art differently and I can honestly say that I have learned to appreciate every stroke of an artist's brush.

From the owner: Our business specializes in contemporary abstract art created by nationally known painter Rachel…read moreMalcolm Ensor. We offer paintings, jewelry, and other artsy whatnots. We are usually in because I work at the studio daily and visitors can also call for an appointment. For sure we are open every Saturday from 10am to 5pm. Looking forward to seeing you!

Looking forward to the spring when this artist will be back in full swing creating new pieces in…read moreher studio assured not to disappoint as always. With new energies, brilliant colors and a creative mind, I for one am ready for a new piece inspired by a new glow of life...

From the owner: Custom Order Canvasread more

Beautiful photographs! Many 'one of a kind' hand made items such as scarfs, ceramic bowls,…read morejewelry, stained glass. ..too much to list here. All created by local artists. If you are looking for an original painting, this is the place to shop.

From the owner: Art, Ceramics,Jewelry, Paintings, Photography and Fiber Art all made by Southern Illinois artists…read morefor sale. Classes and workshops available.